JAMMU: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Provincial President, Jammu, Rattan Lal Gupta today called on the Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, and raised several issues of public importance pertaining to Jammu region relating to his ministries, seeking their early and effective redressal.

During the meeting, Gupta highlighted the acute problem of potable drinking water in Jammu city and the Kandi belts of District Samba and Kathua and far flung areas of Chenab Valley, particularly during the summer months. He stressed the need for digging additional tube wells, expediting ongoing water supply schemes, and installing a new tube well near the Panjtheerthi reservoir to ensure uninterrupted water supply during peak demand periods. He urged the Minister to take pre-emptive measures to avoid recurring hardships faced by the people every summer. 

Gupta also suggested lifting water from the Chenab River to meet the growing water requirements of the population residing in the Kandi belt of Jammu and Jammu city. The National Conference leader further emphasised the importance of ensuring adequate irrigation water through canals during the forthcoming sowing season across the Jammu plains. He called for immediate dredging of vital irrigation canals, rivulets and ponds, along with restoration of embankments damaged due to recent landslides and other natural factors, which have caused significant losses in the region.

Gupta also urged the Minister to expedite the issuance of requisite No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for various road projects so as to provide a much-needed boost to surface connectivity across the Jammu region. Raising concerns related to tribal welfare, Gupta sought comprehensive arrangements for the annual migration of tribal communities across the Pir Panjal during the summer months. He stressed ensuring their safety, security and healthcare needs, along with those of their livestock. He also advocated for insurance coverage for livestock, mobile schools, mobile healthcare facilities and other essential amenities to enhance the overall well-being of the Gujjar community.

Expressing concern over the prolonged delay in the expansion of the Ranbir Canal and Ravi Tawi Canal. Gupta questioned why the project continues to remain in limbo and urged the Minister to take up the matter with the Union Government for swift resolution. The Minister, Javed Ahmed Rana, gave a patient hearing to the issues raised and assured Gupta that all matters of public importance brought to his notice would be examined and addressed on priority.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here